Why Hire an Attorney to Draft Your Will?

Some people assume that a do-it-yourself will is a sufficient document of their wishes. However, New York has very specific requirements regarding drafting a valid will. Failing to follow these procedures is the same as not having a will at all.

Polizzotto and Polizzotto, LLC, is an established estate planning law firm in Brooklyn, New York. We encourage clients to contact an attorney for all their estate planning needs, in order to ensure their wishes regarding the transfer of assets, guardianship of their children, and other estate decisions, are executed appropriately.

Our estate planning lawyers help clients draft last wills and testaments that meet state requirements. Contact us today for a fee consultation.

Pitfalls of do-it-yourself wills include:

• Losing the opportunity to make decisions regarding the division of your estate and guardianship of your children

When someone dies intestate (without a valid will), New York State statues control the division of the estate among the spouse and children. Having an attorney write your will can ensure your assets are given to the persons of your choice. In addition, you can choose the guardian of your child.

• Creating the possibility for family disputes

Do-it-yourself wills can be easily changed and updated. As a result, overzealous relatives may take advantage of an elderly loved one to write or alter the will in their favor. We make sure our clients have the capacity to write and change their will, thus reducing the likelihood of bitter family disputes and court battles.

• Adding expensive court costs

If you write a will without it being notarized by a lawyer, you risk forcing your family into legal battles after your death. While a do-it-yourself will may be cheaper in the short term, it could cost your family thousands of dollars in litigation later.

If you need legal assistance in drafting a will or reviewing a self-written will, contact Polizzotto and Polizzotto, LLC, in Brooklyn, New York. We offer free initial consultations to discuss your legal needs with a well-qualified attorney.